Preview of Lesson 281: 2nd Grade: Lesson 5: Sacraments: Confirmation

In Confirmation, you will be anointed with Chrism. This is done as a seal placed on your soul. This mark is permanent. It marks you as a witness for Christ.

In ancient times wax “seals” were often used to close letters. Wax was dripped on the folded paper or the envelope. Then the owner would seal the wax with his own special stamp. This made it official.

Not only were seals used on letters. They also were used in agreements between two people. The seal would be broken in two. Half of the seal would be given to each person. It was a symbol of unity.

The “seal” of Confirmation shows that you belong to Christ.

In Confirmation, you recommit yourself to your baptismal promises. You publicly declare yourself to be God’s servant and part of His family.

Your Confirmation seal marks you as Christ’s witness. It says that you are His soldier. You are now ready to speak and defend the faith. You have a big responsibility!

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Remember that Sacraments have two parts: matter and form. The matter is the physical sign of Grace. And the form is the spoken words.

In Confirmation, the matter is the laying on of hands by the Bishop. It is also the blessing or anointing with oil. The form is the words, “Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.” You will be asked to renew your Baptismal promises and to make a profession of faith.

The Bishop extends his hands as a sign of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. He says:

“All-powerful God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, by water and the Holy Spirit you freed your sons and daughters from sin and gave them new life. Send your Holy Spirit upon them to be their help and guide. Give them the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of right judgment and courage,the spirit of knowledge and reverence, fill them with the spirit of wonder andawe in your presence. We ask this through Christ our Lord.”

The Bishop uses Holy Chrism oil to trace a cross on your forehead. He uses the oil that is blessed—consecrated--on Holy Thursday at the Mass of Chrism. The Bishop will then offer you the sign of peace. This sign of peace m means that you are in union—communion--with both the Bishop and the Church.

Chrism is consecrated oil. It is consecrated by the bishop on Holy Thursday at the Chrism Mass. Chrism is made of balsam and olive oil. Balsam has a wonderful smell. It is a sign of the scent and sweetness of holiness. Olive... for more, please purchase this lesson.